Becoming a registered pharmacist in Australia as an internationally qualified candidate is a rewarding but challenging journey. After successfully passing the OPRA (Overseas Pharmacists Readiness Assessment) exam, the next critical step is securing an internship. This hands-on experience under supervision is essential for building practical skills and preparing for independent pharmacy practice.
But how do you find the right internship opportunity in Australia? In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything, from eligibility and application processes to top employers and practical tips to help you land your pharmacy internship with confidence.
The Importance of an Internship in Your Registration Pathway
Once you pass the OPRA exam in australia, you become eligible to apply for provisional registration with the Pharmacy Board of Australia (PBA). This provisional registration allows you to work legally as an intern pharmacist under the supervision of a registered pharmacist.
The internship typically involves completing around 1575 hours (approximately one year) of supervised practice. It’s much more than a requirement; it’s a valuable phase where you will:
- Apply your theoretical knowledge in real-world pharmacy settings
- Develop clinical and communication skills
- Learn about Australia’s regulatory, legal, and ethical pharmacy standards
- Australian Intern Written Exam Preparation and Oral Exams
Eligibility Criteria for Starting Your Internship
Before applying for internship roles, ensure you meet the following criteria:
Step 1: Pass the OPRA Exam
(Note: The KAPS exam will be replaced by OPRA starting March 2025.)
Candidates must clear the OPRA exam, conducted by the Australian Pharmacy Council, which is crucial for licensure in Australia and New Zealand. To be eligible, you should hold an internationally recognized 4-year pharmacy degree and have active pharmacist registration in your home country.
Step 2: Demonstrate English Language Proficiency
Applicants must meet the English language standards set by AHPRA via one of these tests:
- OET: Minimum Grade B in Reading, Listening, Speaking; Grade C in Writing
- IELTS: Minimum 7 bands in each module
- PTE: Minimum 66 in Reading, Listening, Speaking; 56 in Writing
The test results should be recent, usually within the last 2 years.
Step 3: Obtain Provisional Registration with AHPRA
You must apply for provisional registration through the AHPRA portal to start practicing legally as an intern. This process requires a police clearance and a certificate of good standing from your home country.
How to Find Internship Opportunities and Advance Your Pharmacy Career
Hospital Pharmacy Internships
Hospital internships provide structured training and extensive clinical exposure. Notable hospitals recruiting interns include:
- Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital (Queensland)
- The Alfred and Royal Melbourne Hospital (Victoria)
- Royal Prince Alfred Hospital (New South Wales)
- Fiona Stanley Hospital (Western Australia)
Application windows are competitive, often opening between May and August for the following year. Check state health department websites or intern recruitment portals like Queensland Health, NSW Health, and South Australia Pharmacy for openings.
Community Pharmacy Internships
Community pharmacies offer flexible roles and direct patient interaction in retail settings. Major pharmacy chains recruiting interns include:
- Chemist Warehouse (Australia’s largest retail pharmacy)
- TerryWhite Chemmart
- Priceline Pharmacy
- Amcal
- Start Pharmacy
- Discount Pharmacy
To apply:
- Check career pages on official pharmacy websites (some may not list jobs on public portals)
- Visit local pharmacies with your resume
- Use online job boards like Seek, Indeed, Jora, and LinkedIn
- Leverage referrals from current pharmacy employees
Pro Tip: Regional and rural areas often have higher acceptance rates and may offer sponsorship visas for internationally trained pharmacists. Employers in these areas sometimes provide relocation assistance and housing benefits aligned with national competency standards.
Understanding Visa Options for Overseas Pharmacists
There is a strong demand for Pharmacists in Australia regional areas. Many OPRA-cleared candidates apply for the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa subclass 482, while some opt for the 489 Regional visa to work in regional locations. Ensure your prospective employer is eligible to sponsor under these visa categories.
Intern Training Programs (ITPs) and Placement Support
You must enroll in an accredited Intern Training Program recognized by the Pharmacy Board of Australia. These programs often assist with placement and provide structured learning through online coursework, workshops, and exam prep. Leading ITP providers include:
- Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA)
- Guild Intern Training
- Monash University
- University of Sydney
Documents Required for Internship Applications
Your internship must include supervised practice meeting all requirements for general registration. Prepare necessary documentation such as:
- Proof of provisional registration
- Police clearance
- Academic transcripts
- Evidence of English proficiency
- Any additional documents requested by employers or training providers
Tips to Secure Your Internship Faster
- Apply early: Start applying at least six months in advance as internship positions fill quickly, especially in major cities.
- Follow up: Contact employers within a week of your application to express continued interest.
- Prepare for interviews: Practice scenario-based questions and communication skills assessments.
- Be flexible: Willingness to relocate to rural or regional areas increases your chances.
- Network: Attend pharmacy events, webinars, and join pharmacy groups on social media platforms like Facebook and LinkedIn.
- Tailor your resume: Highlight relevant skills, achievements, and your commitment to Australian pharmacy standards.
What Comes After Your Internship?
Completing your internship and ITP is a significant milestone but not the final step. To become a fully registered pharmacist in Australia, you must:
- Pass the Australian Intern Written and Oral Exams
- Apply for general registration with AHPRA
- Begin working as a fully registered pharmacist with diverse job opportunities nationwide
Need Support Preparing for the Intern Written and Oral Exams? Elite Expertise Can Help!
Preparing for high-stakes licensure exams can be overwhelming. Elite Expertise offers structured training, expert guidance, and comprehensive support to help you succeed. Our courses are designed specifically for internationally qualified pharmacists preparing for the Australian Pharmacy Board exams.
Our offerings include:
- Updated clinical content aligned with Australian standards
- Timed mock exams and practice sessions
- Patient safety focus and case-study scenarios
- Oral exam role-play simulations and communication skills coaching
- Legal, ethical, and clinical problem-solving training
Meet our educators:
- Mr. Arief Mohammad: Accredited clinical pharmacist and educator in Melbourne with extensive experience training overseas pharmacists
- Mrs. Harika Bheemavarapu: Clinical consultant pharmacist dedicated to simplifying complex concepts and calculations
Final Thoughts
Securing your internship as an Intern pharmacist in Australia after passing OPRA is your gateway to full pharmacist registration. Whether in hospital or community settings, being proactive, well-prepared, and flexible will greatly improve your chances. Australia offers vast professional and personal growth opportunities, and your internship is just the beginning of this exciting journey.